This wonderful antique watch key dates to the first days of Queen Victoria's long reign. It recalls the great tales of romance, with the Arthurian themes of magic and chivalry. The top of the gold sheeted piece is an engraved tube that holds the key. The bottom of the piece is shaped as a horse's hoof, with elaborately sculpted armor covering the hoof and twin twining serpents winding up the back of the hoof to the fetlock. An oval of bloodstone is set in the bottom of the hoof. The key has a swiveling bale with an added jump ring, making it easy to hang this delightful piece from anything you like. Circa 1840.

Before watches were wound by twisting the stem, a key (like this one) was fitted to a gear at the back of the watch to wind the piece. Since it was necessary to carry the key with the watch, these keys often took fanciful forms and were used as decorative fobs worn on watch chains alongside the watches. Now we wear the lovely old watch keys as pendants.

Details.....The watch key measures 2.25" long and 0.44" by 0.54" wide.

Each item from this line of jewelry is unique and incorporates re-purposed vintage and antique pieces. Small imperfections are to be expected and considered part of the charm.

Item #A1701